Nigerian BenDancer Set For Historic 168-Hour Guinness World Record Attempt In Lagos

Award-winning Nigerian contemporary dancer, choreographer, and founder of Bendancer Academy International, Benjamin Daniel Gabriel —professionally known as BENDANCER— has officially announced his attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the Longest Dance Marathon by an Individual.

The ambitious seven-day endurance challenge will see BENDANCER attempt to dance continuously for 168 hours from 21 to 27 September 2026 at Freedom Park, Lagos.

Supported by Inspiro Productions, which is facilitating media access, operational coverage, and press logistics throughout the event, and other brands like , Eventport, Aurelia African fashion, Bethcare, Freedom Park, Robo fitness, Bulux, The Kuti Family, Ishine Worldwide, Offbalance Podcast, Gond and more, the marathon is designed to showcase not only physical endurance under strict Guinness World Records guidelines, but also the rich artistry and resilience of Africa dance culture.

Speaking on what drives the attempt, BENDANCER shared: “Dance has shaped every part of who I am. This attempt isn’t just about breaking a record; it’s about showing young people that with discipline, resilience, and belief, what seems impossible can become reality. I’m carrying the dreams of many creatives with me onto that stage. I hope this journey reminds every young African that their talent has the power to reach the world.”

With over 18 years of professional experience, BENDANCER’s career spans choreography, creative direction, dance consultancy, modelling, and fitness instruction.

A key landmark in his career came when he joined Made Kuti and The Movement, making history as the first and only male dance artist to perform within the Kuti family tradition at the iconic New Afrika Shrine.

His wider contributions to African arts and culture include:

Talent Development: Founder of Bendancer Academy International and former North East Zonal Dance Coordinator for the Dance Guild of Nigeria.

Education & Capacity Building: Hosted landmark workshops in Bauchi (starting in 2020) and facilitated creative leadership programmes alongside NANTAP, NICO, and the British Council.

Major Performances: Featured in high-profile cultural showcases including Felabration (2021–2025), the Big Brother Naija Finale (2021), Trophy Shout International Festival (2021), Global Citizenship 2021, and Project Asia.

Throughout the week-long attempt, Freedom Park will remain open to the public, offering artists, cultural stakeholders, corporate partners, and fans an open space to gather, show support, and experience Nigerian dance culture firsthand.

BENDANCER and his team invite media houses, corporate sponsors, and development partners to join and cover this milestone moment for African performing arts.

Bendancer Academy International is a registered performing arts organization dedicated to training, mentoring, and empowering emerging dancers.

Founded by choreographer Benjamin Daniel Gabriel, the academy provides professional development, artistic opportunities, and capacity building for the next generation of creative talent across Nigeria and beyond.